10 Places Near the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of Brooklyn's most beloved destinations. Calmer than Coney and less brassy than the Bridge, it's a remarkable oasis in New York's famously demanding urban jungle. Spend an hour here for the psychic equivalent of a good massage, a great yoga class, or a walk on the beach. It's also a place where children romp, lovers kiss, and old-timers sit and reminisce with friends. Brooklyn magic.

What are other destinations one might visit, in combination with a trip to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden?

But First, Coffee (and Food)

Before you embark on exploring the area around the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, you might want to fill up on some great eats. Yes, you can dine at the garden. Book a table at the Yellow Magnolia Cafe, and enjoy the menu of soups (including pink lentil) to tacos. Kids in tow? They have a children's menu of all the familiar favorites like mac n cheese.

However, if you want to dine near the garden, you might want to check out the classic and beloved spot, Tom's, an authentic old school diner. Warning, this place is quite popular, so you might have to wait for a table, but it's worth it. Sip an egg cream and dine on pancakes as you soak in the atmosphere of this charming neighborhood diner. 

10 Attractions Near the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Here's a list of great Brooklyn destinations near the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, listed by distance, from the closest to the furthest. The closest, the Brooklyn Museum, is next door. The furthest, the Brooklyn Children's Museum, is just 1.3 miles or 2.1 kilometers away. Here's the best things to do near the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

1. Brooklyn Museum (next door) This is a must-visit museum and a great place to pair with a trip to the garden. 
2. Brooklyn Central Library (2 blocks, a short walk) Check the calendar of events before you head to this large library. The library hosts readings, free writing workshops and other activities. 
3. Prospect Park (.3 miles or .4 km) Lace up your running shoes. You can run the loop in Prospect Park or you can relax on the lawn at this spacious and scenic park. 
4. Prospect Heights (.3 miles or .4 km) Walk around this hip neighborhood. Stroll down Vanderbilt Avenue, stopping in at the shops, perusing the aisles of a used bookstore or dining at one of the many restaurants on this main street.
5. Grand Army Plaza (half a mile or .8 km) Be sure to take a picture of the arch at Grand Army Plaza. If you are there on a Saturday, check out the vibrant Farmer's Market.
6. Prospect Park Zoo (.7 miles or 1.1 km) Watch the sea lions eat their lunch at this zoo located on Flatbush Avenue.
7. Park Slope (.7 miles or 1.1 km) Walk down brownstone lined streets and explore 7th and 5th Avenues, which are two main streets filled with shops and restaurants. 
8. Lefferts House (1.1 miles or 1.8 km) This historic house in Prospect Park is a great place to visit if you have children with you. The interactive educational exhibit introduces kids to 18th century farming life in Brooklyn. They will also enjoy a ride on the historic carousel which is next to the house.
9. Jewish Children's Museum (1.1 miles or 1.8 km) Travel down Eastern Parkway to this museum that teaches kids about Jewish culture. 
10. Brooklyn Children's Museum (1.3 miles or 2.1 km) This historic children's museum is worth a visit. With interactive exhibits and a section for toddlers, it's a definite gem for young families.

Location Specs

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is in Prospect Heights, near to the Brooklyn Museum, the Brooklyn Central Library, Prospect Park, and Park Slope.

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden
• 900 Washington Avenue
• (718) 623-7200

Edited by Alison Lowenstein